Goa’s summers are synonymous with sweltering heat, but they also bring a delightful variety of seasonal fruits that locals eagerly anticipate. From the prized Mankurad mangoes to the refreshing kokum, summer fruits in Goa are a must-have for every household. As demand increases, prices soar, but the love for these fruits remains unchanged.
Mangoes – The King of Fruits
Mangoes, particularly the Mankurad variety, reign supreme in Goa. Considered one of the best mangoes, Mankurad mangoes arrive in the markets by March. This variety is so sought after that people have paid up to Rs. 4,000 per dozen. Elders fondly recall a time when these mangoes were either free or easily affordable. Today, they are a luxury but remain an indispensable part of Goan summers.
Raw Mangoes – A Tangy Treat
Raw mangoes are just as popular as their ripe counterparts. Used extensively in pickles and preserves, they also enhance the taste of urrack (a local cashew liquor) when combined with salt and chili. One of the most beloved summer drinks in Goa, ‘panne’, is made from raw mangoes, offering a cool and refreshing respite from the heat.
Bibbe – Tender Cashews
Fresh tender cashews, or bibbe, are another Goan summer specialty. These young cashew nuts are plucked and peeled before being enjoyed as a snack. Though peeling them can be time-consuming, it is a joyful process for many Goans. Their price increases every year, currently standing at Rs. 100 for 20 pieces, but their unique taste makes them worth it.
Jambhalam – The Diabetes-Friendly Fruit
Jambhalam, also known as Zambllam, is a seasonal fruit found in Goan villages. This dark purple or black fruit has a mildly sour and astringent taste, making it a favorite among those with diabetes. The seeds are dried and ground into a powder known for its blood sugar-lowering properties.
Kokum – A Goan Staple
Kokum, or Binnddam, is a multipurpose fruit used in Goan cuisine. While it is not commonly eaten raw, its outer cover is dried and used as a souring agent in curries, replacing tamarind. It is also the key ingredient in kokum sharbat, a refreshing summer drink that helps cool the body.
Kantam – The Thorny Fruit
Kantam is another locally found fruit that grows on thorny trees. The sweet-sour flavor makes it a popular summer snack. The raw fruit is commonly used for pickling, while the ripe ones are often sold along highways in eco-friendly leaf cups.
Love Apples – Juicy and Refreshing
Locally called ‘jaam’, love apples grow in bunches and are available in white (light green) or pinkish-red varieties. These fruits are juicy, sweet, and high in water content, making them a refreshing summer snack. Some Goans also use them to make homemade wine.
Watermelons – The Ultimate Summer Cooler
No summer in Goa is complete without watermelons. Grown locally in fields, watermelons are sold both in markets and by roadside vendors. Their high water content helps combat dehydration, and freshly made watermelon juice is a popular thirst-quencher.
Other Seasonal Fruits and Wild Berries
Apart from the popular fruits, Goa also boasts lesser-known wild berries like Chunna and Koneram. These fruits, often found in local markets and on roadsides, add to the variety of summer delights available.
Summer fruits in Goa are more than just seasonal treats—they are an integral part of Goan culture and tradition. Whether you buy them from a bustling market or a roadside vendor, these fruits bring a burst of flavor to the summer season. So, as the temperatures rise, indulge in these refreshing summer fruits and enjoy the best that Goa has to offer!
